Several bikes have been spray painted in flourescent colours and left at bike rikes in the city centre.

Officers have secured these bikes with gold rated solid secure locks and have warning notices advising cyclists to secure their bikes.

PCSO Stephen Connolly of Preston Police said: “This is one part of Operation Spoke, similar projects have been done elsewhere in the country and it has had some positive results.

“Cycle theft has become more and more popular over the past few years, many of the bicycles stolen are either left unlocked or with poor quality locks. This initiative is designed to show cyclists the best way to secure their bicycles thus minimising the chance of their bicycle being targeted. Additionally I would advise all cyclists to follow some basic crime prevention advice.”

One of the colourful bikes on a city centre bike rack Pic: Tony Worrall

Police are advising cyclists to spend around 10 per cent of their bikes value on a lock and use two different ones where possible.

Anyone with information about bike crime in the city is asked to report it to 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Have you ever been a victim of bike crime? Let us know in the comments below